Incorporating Diabetes Self-management Education Into Your Practice: When, What, and How

Because the majority of diabetes management is self-care, education has long been considered an essential element of diabetes treatment. Unfortunately, many patients do not receive initial formal diabetes education or the necessary continuing education and support to successfully manage their disease. Because many adults with diabetes are cared for by nurse practitioners, it is essential that they provide information, support behavior change, address psychosocial issues and concerns, and make appropriate referrals as needed for diabetes self-management education and support and medical nutrition therapy at each encounter.